Are you one of those people who like to hold your digital camera at arm’s length to take odd self-portraits or group shots? It’s always a lucky dip of a shot, dependent upon you:
- being able to aim straight
- and get the level of zoom just right
- not being knocked over by the portrait flash mob you’re trying to get in the shot
If you like the lucky dip approach just keep on with your crazy snapping. If however, you want to take your arm’s-length-self-portraits to a new level, Samsung’s new ST550 and ST500 digital cameras might be for you. Not only do they have an LCD screen at the back, there’s also a 1.5 inch screen on the front of the camera, allowing you to see exactly what you’re shooting.
Each of the cameras is 12.2 megapixels, and both be in stores in September 2009. The ST550 will sell for $499, in a choice of black, orange and purple. The ST500 will be $449, and the colours on offer will be silver, red and blue.
Samsung’s ST550 and Samsung ST500 press release
Samsung Digital Imaging Co. Ltd. today announced the arrival of the Samsung ST550 and Samsung ST500, the latest in compact camera innovation. The new models set themselves apart from the pack with the innovative inclusion of Dual LCD screens on front and back; allowing consumers to truly put themselves in the picture.
Delivering a unique experience, the 1.5″ LCD located on the front of the camera now allows consumers to take first rate photos whether they are behind the camera or in front of it. Opening up a whole new world of possibilities, the Dual LCD allows users to easily take photos that were difficult before – from either side of the lens. Set-up a self-portrait and use the front LCD screen to make sure you’re lined up perfectly in the photo.
The Samsung ST550 also features the world’s highest resolution 3.5″ Wide Touch Screen Back LCD. At almost four times higher resolution than many comparable cameras, the ST550 also features a 12.2 Megapixel CCD and 27mm Wide Angle lens with 4.6x Optical Zoom. These technology innovations create a wider shooting range from a shorter distance. The perfect companion for your next rock concert or sporting event, the Samsung ST550 can zoom in on your favourite star or player and capture up close and personal moments like never before.
For consumers excited about the dual screen fun, but who don’t require such a high spec camera, the Samsung ST500 is also being launched. With vivid viewing capabilities on a 3″ Wide Touch Screen the Samsung ST500 is a top drawer option in a smaller, more affordable package.
“These cameras are the very first of their kind,” said Sang Jin Park, CEO at Samsung Digital Imaging Company. “Use of digital imaging technologies has evolved and we are offering functionality and capabilities that no other digital camera manufacturer has yet addressed. It has become more common for the photographer to switch roles and become the subject of his or her photo, especially given the rise in popularity of self-portraits or profile pictures for use with today’s popular social networking sites. The Dual LCD on the ST550 and ST500 allows consumers to become part of the picture that they simply weren’t before. These cameras will be must-haves for those individuals that use popular social networking websites and for families that want to get everyone, including the photographer, in the picture.”
The new range also features some new points which are sure to capture the imaginations of camera lovers the world over. Children mode makes the front LCD play a fun animation to capture a child’s attention while taking their photo – ensuring the perfect snap of a little one with a big smile. The Shutter Info feature also helps ensure the subject of a picture smiles at the right moment. The front LCD will display a “smiley face” when the shutter is pushed halfway, signalling the perfect time to smile and get ready for the photo.
Specifications
